My path began with ancient ceramics, which taught me to understand form and fragility. The turning point was a bronze hydria: working on it demanded a careful balance between metal diagnostics, preservation of the patina and reconstruction. That vessel began a 25-year immersion in bronze. Today, with well over a thousand objects restored, every intervention is still a deliberate and measured decision.
A restorer who works on everything cannot know any one material deeply. The patina of a 5th-century BC bronze helmet is not simply “green colour”. It is a mineral system with its own chemistry, history and behaviour — something that cannot be mastered between furniture and paintings.
Over twenty-five years I have handled hundreds of objects, spent hundreds of hours studying patina chemistry and developed my own working protocols. That depth — not generalism — is what produces results accepted by Apollo, Christie's and Dorotheum.
Every object is examined before work begins. I assess the patina, the nature of the corrosion and the character of previous interventions. Only then is a treatment method selected.
Mechanical cleaning under magnification. Chemical chloride stabilization. Joining with silver-bearing solders where appropriate. Cast reconstruction using a bronze alloy selected for the object. Hand-applied visual patina integration.
Each stage is photographically documented. The client receives a written treatment record in English or German.
The best restoration is the one that does not call attention to itself. Original material is preserved wherever possible. Reconstruction is limited to what is required for structural integrity or a clearly agreed presentation goal.
Materials and joining methods are selected according to the condition of the original and the possibility of future intervention. The decision is recorded, and where full reversibility is impossible this is stated explicitly to the owner.
If an object does not need restoration, I will say so. If the result is limited by the object’s condition, that will be explained before work begins. Reputation matters more than any single commission.
I do not take on everything. Over twenty-five years I have learned to say no to work outside my expertise. That is not a weakness; it is respect for the object and the client.
Objects I work with:
Long-term cooperation in restoration and conservation prior to sale. A reference letter is available on request.
Cooperation in preparing antiquities for international auctions. A reference letter is available on request.
Reply within 48 hours. All communication is in writing — in your language. Objects are accepted from anywhere in Europe.
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